How We Give

Potlatch has a long tradition of philanthropic giving through charitable contributions and through our support of employee giving and volunteerism.

Our giving program focuses on the communities where we live and do business, and is concentrated in four areas: community programs, conservation of natural resources, education and major gifts. In 2010, we contributed a total of $219,000.

Education
Total giving in 2010: $59,600

Potlatch maintains a keen awareness for opportunities to support education at all levels. In 2010, we funded 92 scholarships totaling more than $50,000. In addition, we match our employees' gifts to qualifying educational institutions up to a total of $1,500 per employee. Through the program, we contributed more than $6,600 in 2010.

Community programs
Total giving in 2010: $72,300

We make gifts to a wide range of programs, seeking to support as many aspects of our diverse communities as we can. We contribute to arts organizations, youth sports programs, clubs, and more. We also match our employees' gifts to United Way at a rate of 50 cents on the dollar. In 2010 our employees made personal donations totaling more than $67,500. Potlatch matching donations to United Way totaled more than $33,700. Our employees also support programs in their communities by serving on boards or in other volunteer capacities.

Natural resources conservation
Total giving in 2010: $21,400

As a recognized leader in forest stewardship, we understand the importance of conserving natural resources. We support both local and national programs dedicated to that effort. At the local level, our gifts support conservation education, programs at various conservation organizations, and project work. We have supported organizations such as The Nature Conservancy and the Conservation Fund.

Major gifts
Total giving in 2010: $65,600

We regularly make major gifts to capital campaigns and programs for hospitals, libraries, community centers, and other organizations that are central to the quality of life in our communities. These gifts sometimes include multi-year commitments. We have also made major commitments to the Fox Theatre, the YMCA/YWCA Building Campaign and the Rypien Foundation in Spokane, Washington. Additionally, we continue to support the Lionel Hamptom Jazz Festival at the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho.